The ecological diversity of Galveston Island State Park (GISP) is like none other on the Texas coast. A complex 2,000 acre mosaic of coastal dunes, strand prairies, and salt marsh, the park is a dynamic environmental remnant of the Texas barrier island system, offering an unparalleled “beach to bay” experience that is no longer attainable elsewhere on the island. Cultural history abounds, with overlapping storylines of settlement and nature that include Jean Lafitte and the lost town of South Galveston.

The master plan provides varied recreation and educational opportunities that include a discovery center, interpretive hiking and kayak trails, and an ample day-use beach zone. In addition to recreational offerings, the plan provides a diverse array of lodging that include cabins, multi-use sites, tidal camp sites, and primitive beach camping.

The design team used predictive modeling for sea rise and tropical storms to effectively manage Galveston Island State Park's fragile resources while still providing diverse recreation opportunities for its constituency. Through establishing an appropriate balances between recreation and nature, the park is poised to regain, and retain, its status as a flagship destination in the Texas Parks and Wildlife system.